Digital empowerment in mental health: a meta-analysis of internet-based interventions for enhancing mental health literacy

• Qiang Chen ^[1] ; Ziyi Zhao ^[1] ; Jiamin Bao ^[1] ; Jie Lin ^[1] ; Wei Li ^[2] ; Yinyin Zang ^[1]
  1. [1] Peking University

     Peking University

     China

     
  2. [2] Shanghai Jiao Tong University

     Shanghai Jiao Tong University

     China

     
• Localización: International journal of clinical and health psychology, ISSN 1697-2600, Vol. 24, Nº. 3, 2024, págs. 151-160
• Idioma: inglés
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• Resumen

  • Background Poor mental health literacy (MHL) in the global population significantly contributes to the treatment gap associated with mental disorders. In the digital age, leveraging Internet-based MHL interventions offers scalability and broader accessibility. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effects of Internet-based interventions in improving MHL and mental health.

    Method Up to Feb 2024, seven databases were searched for Internet-based interventions on MHL (knowledge, stigma, help-seeking attitudes and intentions) and mental disorders (general distress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms). The random-effects meta-analyses at post-intervention and long-term follow-up assessments were performed.

    Results Twenty-nine eligible studies involving 11,582 participants were included. Significant positive effects were observed across various domains: knowledge increase (immediate: g = 0.459, 95 %CI: 0.285 to 0.634; follow-up: g = 0.487, 95 %CI: 0.348 to 0.626), immediate stigma reduction (g = -0.332, 95 %CI: -0.479 to -0.186), immediate enhancement of help-seeking attitudes (g = 0.168, 95 %CI: 0.046 to 0.3291) and help-seeking intentions (g = 0.135, 95 %CI: 0.072 to 0.198), as well as immediate mental health improvements (g = -0.074, 95 %CI: -0.115 to -0.033).

    Conclusion Overall, these findings underscore the promising effects of internet-based interventions in improving MHL and mental health, while maintaining these effects over time remains challenging, particularly in reducing stigma and promoting long-term help-seeking behaviors. Addressing methodological limitations, adopting a more interactive approach, and implementing targeted interventions are crucial to maximizing the effectiveness and advancing mental health care worldwide.